Why is Transport Minister Wee Ka Siong delaying the cabotage policy debate?

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Transport Minister Wee Ka Siong's Debate Delay Amidst Policy Review Speculation

Transport Minister Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong is reportedly delaying his debate with DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng on the cabotage exemption policy as he is allegedly attempting to alter aspects of the policy. Lim Guan Eng has suggested that this potential policy revision is the reason for the postponement of their discussion, which was initially slated for October 23 and is now scheduled for November 2. The controversy centres on the Malaysian cabotage law, which governs submarine cable deployment and repairs.
Speculation Over Policy Modifications

Lim Guan Eng has posited that the delay in the debate might stem from Wee Ka Siong's efforts to modify the existing cabotage policy. The core of the issue lies in the requirement for a Domestic Shipping Licence Exemption (DSLE) when foreign ships are deemed the most suitable option for cable repairs. Under current regulations, local ship owners, represented by the Malaysia Shipowners Association (Masa), have the ability to object to the issuance of a DSLE if they believe they possess the capability to undertake the repairs themselves. Industry players, including major tech companies, have highlighted that this consent requirement from local competitors can impede foreign repair vessels.
The Apricot Cable System Bypass

The debate also touches upon the Apricot Subsea Cable System Project, which bypassed Malaysia. Lim Guan Eng has previously stated that this decision was a direct consequence of Wee Ka Siong's refusal to grant a cabotage exemption. Wee Ka Siong, however, has denied this assertion, stating on September 30 that his decision to revoke the cabotage exemption policy did not lead to the Apricot project bypassing Malaysia. Lim has suggested that former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak might also be involved in the discourse surrounding the debate and the policy.
Preparations for the Scheduled Debate

Despite the ongoing discussions and speculations, Wee Ka Siong has confirmed his readiness to debate the cabotage policy with Lim Guan Eng. He indicated on October 5 that he was open to a debate and was looking to schedule it through a willing media outlet. More recently, he confirmed that the debate is set for November 2 and that he has been in communication with TV3 regarding the broadcast. Wee Ka Siong also reminded Lim Guan Eng that the debate was always intended to take place after the tabling of Budget 2022.

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Why is Transport Minister Wee Ka Siong delaying the cabotage policy debate?

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